Congress government keeps blaming the Centre for funds but skips crucial meetings where policies and financial support are discussed: Dr. Rajeev Saizal
Shimla: Former Himachal Pradesh Health Minister and senior BJP leader Dr. Rajeev Saizal has strongly criticized the Congress government after the Himachal Pradesh Health Minister failed to attend the 16th Conference of the Central Council of Health & Family Welfare, chaired by the Union Health Minister at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. He also expressed concern that the State Health Secretary reportedly left the meeting midway, calling it a reflection of the state government's casual approach towards the country's apex health policy forum.
Dr. Saizal said that the Central Council of Health & Family Welfare is one of the most important platforms where the Union Government and States deliberate on national health policies, healthcare reforms, centrally sponsored schemes, and future funding priorities. Such meetings provide an opportunity for states to present their concerns, seek additional support, and actively participate in shaping national healthcare policy.
He said it was highly irresponsible on the part of the Himachal Pradesh Government that the Health Minister chose not to attend such a significant meeting. "If the Health Minister himself does not represent the state at the country's highest health policy forum, it raises serious questions about the government's commitment towards strengthening the healthcare sector in Himachal Pradesh," he said.
Dr. Saizal further stated that the Congress government repeatedly accuses the Central Government of not providing adequate financial assistance. However, the reality is that the same government fails to participate seriously in important meetings where health policies are discussed and future financial support, projects, and centrally sponsored schemes are reviewed.
He added that the absence of the Health Minister and the reported early departure of the Health Secretary sends a wrong message to the Union Government and reflects the lack of seriousness of the Himachal Pradesh Government in pursuing the state's interests.
Dr. Saizal said that the people of Himachal Pradesh deserve a government that actively engages with the Centre to secure better healthcare infrastructure, additional funding, modern medical facilities, and improved health services. Instead of remaining absent from crucial national forums, the state government should ensure effective representation and strongly advocate for the interests of Himachal Pradesh.
He urged the Congress government to explain why the Health Minister did not attend such an important national meeting and why the Health Secretary reportedly left midway. "The people of Himachal Pradesh have the right to know whether safeguarding the state's healthcare interests is a priority for this government or not," he added.